• GILBERT P. BAYORAN
Negros Occidental 3rd district Rep. Jose Francisco Benitez has underscored the importance of creative tourism and the need to revolutionize the tourism landscape.
Benitez, who was the guest speaker at the Philippine Creative Tourism Congress held yesterday at Orange Gallery Art District in Bacolod City, disclosed that “creative tourism is an emerging trend for authentic experiences in the Philippines.”
He emphasized the nation’s potential to become a unique destination offering immersive cultural experiences for tourists.
In his speech, Benitez, who authored the Philippine Creative Industries Development Act (PCIDA), highlighted how PCIDA transforms cities into creative hubs by leveraging their cultural assets.
The law fosters an environment where artists and artisans can thrive economically while enriching the cultural fabric of their communities.
“The government’s role should be an enabler, supporting creative entrepreneurs,” Benitez said, emphasizing the need for the government to empower creative entrepreneurs by providing essential frameworks and resources for organic growth.
He further stressed that the creative economy is multi-directional, not solely focused on exporting creative goods but also on attracting visitors to intimately experience and engage with Filipino culture. “Creative economy is multi-directional, drawing visitors to experience Filipino culture,” emphasized Benitez, painting a vision of a dynamic and inclusive creative landscape that beckons both local and global audiences.
Present during the event were Rep. Christopher De Venecia, Tourism Undersecretary Verna Buensuceso, DILG Undersecretary Marlo Iringan, Marga Nograles, and Atty. Gio Gomez representing DTI Undersecretary Fita Aldaba.*
